The Supreme Court has broad authority over all categories of cases, including civil and criminal matters. The court generally handles civil matters seeking monetary damages greater than $25,000. It also hears cases where a party seeks to enjoin or stop certain actions by another party. The Supreme Court is the only court with the authority to address matters related to the termination of a marriage, including separation, annulment and divorce.

While the Supreme Court has authority to hear criminal matters involving felonies (offenses punishable by more than one year in prison), generally outside New York City these matters are heard in the County Court.